1-First Step: Set up your breading station Start by getting everything lined up before you touch the steak. In one dish, beat together the 1 1/2 cups whole milk and 2 large eggs. In a second dish, mix the 2 cups all-purpose flour with 2 teaspoons seasoned salt, black pepper to taste, 3/4 teaspoon paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper. Keep the 3 pounds cube steak nearby and season it with kosher salt to taste.

2-Second Step: Dredge the steak Take each piece of cube steak and coat it in the flour mixture first. Then dip it into the milk and egg mixture. After that, send it right back through the flour mixture for a second coating. That double dip is what gives Chicken Fried Steak its thick, crispy shell. Press the flour onto the steak gently so it sticks. If you want extra crunch, let the breaded pieces rest for a few minutes before frying. That little pause helps the coating settle in place.

3-Third Step: Heat the skillet and fry in batches Set a large skillet over medium heat and add 1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil plus 1 tablespoon butter. When the fat is hot, it is go time. You can test the oil by sprinkling in a little flour. If it sizzles, you are in good shape. Fry the steak in batches so the pan does not get crowded. Cook until golden brown on both sides, about 2 minutes per side. Crowding the pan makes the coating steam, and nobody wants soggy Chicken Fried Steak.

4-Fourth Step: Drain the steak Move each fried piece to a paper towel-lined plate so the extra oil can drip away. This keeps the crust crisp while you make the gravy. If you are cooking for a larger group, keep the fried steaks warm in a low oven while you finish the rest.

5-Fifth Step: Make the white gravy Pour off the excess grease from the skillet, but leave about 1/4 cup grease in the pan. Heat it over medium heat, then whisk in 1/3 cup all-purpose flour to form a paste. Cook that mixture until it turns golden brown. This builds the base flavor for the gravy. Next, slowly whisk in 4 cups whole milk, 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt, and black pepper to taste. Keep whisking so the gravy stays smooth. Let it cook for about 5 to 10 minutes, or until thickened to your liking.

6-Final Step: Serve it hot Spoon mashed potatoes onto each plate, top them with the crispy steak, and pour that warm white gravy over everything. Serve right away while the crust is still crisp and the gravy is silky.